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Family Biking in Westchester: Trails and Shops

Family Biking in Westchester
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The Westchester Parks Foundation just announced the return of Bicycle Sundays (which has been an annual tradition for over 40 years.) On Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., bikers can ride on a car-less stretch of the Bronx River Parkway, between Yonkers and White Plains. And even if this isn’t your preferred route, Westchester’s many picturesque trails make it an ideal place for bikers of all skills. Don’t have a bike or need yours adjusted? Check out our favorite bike shops in Westchester —and then hit one of our favorite family bike trails.

Best Family Bike Trails in Westchester 

Blue Mountain Reservation has some of the best trails in the Hudson Valley. The seven miles of trails include beginner, intermediate and advanced, although even the beginner trails include a few hills to don’t forget those energy bars.  

 

Kensico Dam Plaza is perfect for kids (and adults who haven’t been on a bike in a while.) The plaza also features picnic tables and a big lawn so bring a picnic and a frisbee.

 

Tarrytown Lakes Extension is also popular with families. The casual path is only one mile long but affords views of both sides of the Tarrytown lakes while connecting riders to the village of Tarrytown, the Old Croton Aqueduct and the Riverwalk.

 

Old Croton Aqueduct is more of a choose-your-own-adventure. The diverse trail includes paved and unpaved portions which pass through both the woods and suburban roads. 

 

Sprain Ridge Mountain trails are best for the slightly more advanced riders — there are several steep drops, stream crossings and terrain changes. Spend some time completing it and take advantage of the adjacent picnic grounds.

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Best Bike Shops in Westchester

 

Just the Basics

The second outpost of a Brooklyn institution, Acme Bicycle Co. in Katonah is a high-end shop specializing in fittings, maintenance and repair. The popular spot is also planning group rides, classes and other community events for the near future. Endless Trail Bikeworx in Dobbs Ferry sells high-intensity mountain bikes as well as casual around-the-neighborhood kind of bikes. The rider-owned shop carries high-quality brands like Trek and Giant, top-notch accessories, and full-service rentals and repairs.

 

Family-Oriented

Miller’s Bikes in Mamaroneck focuses on the family cycling experience and carries everything from tricycles to balance bikes and flat-bar road bikes. Julio Bicycles Inc in Chappaqua was started in a small town in Uruguay and moved to Chappaqua in 1991, where the second generation of the family took over the operations. They do repairs, sales and consultations with a compassionate family-friendly vibe.

 

Discounts and Used Bikes

Danny’s Cycles in Scarsdale aims to combat the expense of purchasing and maintaining a bike with their 13-month service plan. Come back for any adjustments within a year after your purchase for free service. Danny’s also sells insurance that covers flat tires. Bronx River Bicycle Works in Mount Vernon sells new and used bicycles and offers a range of services, including one-on-one bicycle repair sessions by appointment. Yorktown Cycles in Yorktown Heights is great for the budget-conscious biker. The shop promises to match the price of any of its local competitors and also sells pre-owned bikes and gear. 

 

Ask the Pros

10538 Bicycles in Larchmont sells, repairs and restores bicycles. Their staff is also focused on health, wellness and sustainability via cycling so be sure to ask their advice on local rides and biking strategies. Crank Cycles in Hartsdale sells bikes, parts, accessories, and various services. If you’re interested in learning more about bicycles, Cranks also has a YouTube channel that provides product reviews, component recommendations and riding footage. Bicycle World NY in Mount Kisco has been around for almost 50 years, and its experienced staff remains a great resource. Come here to buy top brands, as well as all the extras like bike computers, cycling nutrition products and indoor trainers.

Now that you have the 411 on biking in Westchester, it’s time to hit the trails. With warming weather and the launch of Bicycle Sundays, family biking has officially begun. Don’t forget the sunscreen, and the snacks, and if you’re looking for some bicycle safety tips, check out the Westchester Parks Foundation’s Instagram.